Iraqi Air Force stands up new Al Muthana Air Base

Blackanthem Military News, BAGHDAD, Iraq, March 09, 2006 14:37

The Iraqi Air Force, along with its Coalition partners, officially opened a new air-base in Baghdad, March 7.

The Al Muthana Air Base, near the international airport, provides a foundation on which Iraq’s Air Force can rebuild with help from its allies.

On display were two C-130E transport aircraft, paid for by both the United States and Iraqi governments as part of a U.S. and foreign military sales program, said U.S. Air Force Maj. David Barna, a deputy base unit support advisor.

The planes will be used to support the Iraqi Armed Forces in rapidly deploying equipment and personnel and monitoring Iraq’s borders, he said.
 

Russian-made MI- 17 helicopters, paid for by the Ministry of Defense, were also displayed at the new air base. The helicopters will be integrated into the IAF’s existing helicopter squadron and will be used in a support capacity, said Barna.
 

"It is important for Iraqis," said Maj. Gen. Kamal of the base. "It is important for them to see tangible results and cooperation," he said. "Building up an air force takes so much work, finance and dedication."

Although Iraq’s Air Force is much smaller now compared to Saddam’s, now it is better than before, said Col. Jabber. "Now our Air Force supports the government and the people. In the past the Air Force only supported Saddam," he said. "We are humanitarian now."

The Iraqi Air Force flew their first cross border humanitarian mission last month taking five children to Turkey for eye surgery.

"Be patient and we will work together to restore this Air Force," said Eidsuane. Taking on this training mission in a combat zone is not an easy task, he said. "I am confident that the future of the Iraqi Air Force is bright. They are small but proud and growing every day."

The new Al Muthana Air Base, although operational, is still undergoing construction and will be the backbone of Iraq’s air power, said Col. Jabber.

By Spc. Rick Czepka

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS:

	Iraqi Air Force C-130 and Russian made Mi-17 Helicopter on display for the Iraq Air Force Al Muthana opening ceremony.
	Visitors at the Al Muthana Iraqi Air Base opening ceremony got to tour the new Air Force equipment including a Russian made MI-17.
	The new Iraqi Air Force on display at Al Muthana in Baghdad, Iraq.